Re: VR6 whine

["Christopher Morgan" <cmorgan02@sprynet.com>]

>>> Now that it is cold, I have noticed my VR6 whines until it is warmed up.
>>>  The noise is directly proportional to the amount of throttle input.
>>>  I called my dealer and was told this is normal and is the result of
some
>>>  emissions hardware. I am skeptical.
>>>  - Dave R.

From: Mitch <mitchman@owt.com>


>My '97 also whine but I think it's in the engine

This topic was covered on the GTI VR6 list a while back.  The concensus was
that it is the auxiliary air pump that whines on a cold start.  The change
in pitch with engine speed threw me off a little because I figured that an
electric pump would operate at a constant speed (I thougth it was my power
steering pump).  I guess it makes sense that the pump would need to match
its speed to the engine rpms since more exhaust gas would need more air.  I
think the purpose of the pump is to reduce cold start emmissions and to help
the cats "light up" quicker.
Maybe one of the mornings I'll pop the hood and listen

>1. Should I wait till the car warms up and the whine goes away before I
>drive it?

I don't.

Chris